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Wade happy to fill batting role

Matthew Wade is willing to ditch his wicketkeeping gloves and earn a spot in Australia's Ashes side as a specialist batsman.

The 25-year-old is one of a number of players hoping to force his way into Darren Lehmann’s Test side following England’s victories at Trent Bridge and Lord’s.

Wade will keep in the three-day game against Sussex, but is aware he and first-choice stumper Brad Haddin could yet feature in the same line-up for next week’s third Investec Test at Emirates Old Trafford as the tourists seek a solution for their batting woes.

Referring to the Sussex fixture, which begins tomorrow, Wade told Sky Sports News: "It's a huge opportunity for everyone who's not had a game.

"The Ashes tour has not started like we wanted, but to get an opportunity to play, which I've not had for a couple of months, is great for me.

"I am here as a back-up wicketkeeper but I want to get amongst the runs and push for a spot as a batsman. I'd take a spot where I can get one, wicketkeeper or batsman.

"If I get a tap on the shoulder to play a game, especially an Ashes game, I'll take it."

The hosts will be led by Chris Nash as regular captain Ed Joyce is rested. They are missing all-rounder Luke Wright (knee) and wicketkeeper Ben Brown (broken finger) while seamers Amjad Khan (wrist) and Matthew Hobden (shin) are out for the season.